In this engaging episode of the Japanese America Podcast, hosts Michelle and Koji take listeners on a nostalgic journey through the vibrant summer festivities of Japanese American culture. They share delightful anecdotes from events like Obon and Nisei Week, highlighting the unique traditions and foods that make these celebrations special. The episode features a captivating interview with Helen Ota, the 2025 Nisei Week Foundation President, who discusses her leadership journey and contributions to the community, including her work with the Cold Tofu improv group.
For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.
CREDITS
The music was created by Jalen Blank
Written by Koji Steven Sakai
Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai
Edited and produced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum
Ever pondered if those infamous Roswell aliens were just misunderstood Soviet children on an intergalactic field trip? In this hilariously speculative episode, we dive headfirst into the absurd with hosts Koji, Dwayne, and Cat, as they debate who among them would be the most irresistible human for alien abduction. Between considering clever escape tactics and trying to annoy extraterrestrial captors into releasing them, the hosts promise plenty of laughs. The trio also examines the legendary Roswell incident, exploring its quirky theories—imagine Soviet children with special needs posing as aliens! Amidst this cosmic chaos, they humorously explore conspiracy theories, the nuances of infidelity with extraterrestrials, and the awkward moments of mistaking mannequins for naked people on the highway. With a whimsical take on humanity, this episode is a delightful blend of humor, curiosity, and the undeniable charm of human absurdity.
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
In this month’s episode, we dive into the fascinating world of modern mind control theories, tracing their origins from the infamous MKUltra experiments to their potential reincarnations in today’s digital age. The discussion raises thought-provoking questions about the role of digital platforms like TikTok and social media in shaping our perceptions and behaviors, speculating whether these trends are mere entertainment or sophisticated tools of psychological influence. The episode also delves into the mysteries of hypnosis, false memories, and historical conspiracy theories, including the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy and the curious connections to mind-control narratives. With a blend of humor and skepticism, Dwayne, Koji, and Cat, with guest comedian Ben Morrison, explore the intersections of consumerism, environmentalism, and socio-political landscapes, offering a fresh perspective on the hidden strings of social media and cultural phenomena.
ABOUT OUR GUEST/HOST
Ben Morrison is a Los Angeles-based actor, writer, comedian, and filmmaker who trained at NYU’s TISCH School of the Arts before becoming a stand-up regular at the Improv and Laugh Factory. He has written and acted in The Telethon for America and was a head writer for Funny You Should Ask. On-screen, he’s known for NCIS, MTV’s Punk’d, Mr. Box Office, and films like Ouija Exorcism and 30 Nights of Paranormal Activity. His comedy credits include appearances on Last Comic Standing and Gotham Comedy Live, and he created Superfunny!, a monthly showcase at the Hollywood Improv.
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Michelle and Koji explore the unique journey of Japanese immigrants adapting to life in the U.S. They delve into the cultural crossroads and identity challenges faced by these individuals, from nostalgic childhood dreams influenced by American commercials to the bittersweet farewell to Japanese citizenship. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt stories, listeners gain insight into the resilience required to blend traditions and find a sense of home in a foreign land. The episode also highlights the small, everyday connections that define American culture and the warmth of shared experiences. With chapter discussions ranging from immigration hurdles to the nuances of cheering for athletes during international sports events, this episode offers a rich narrative of embracing new beginnings and balancing cultural identities.
Dive into the hilariously outlandish world of science fiction and conspiracy theories with this side-splitting podcast episode that takes you on a joyride through the universe’s quirkiest secrets. We kick off with a debate about the critical importance of lightsaber colors in Star Wars—because everyone knows picking the wrong color could turn your Jedi feng shui into a cosmic disaster. This whimsical discussion opens the floodgates to a galaxy of fandoms, sprinkled with enough absurdity to make even a Wookiee snort with laughter.
Dwayne Perkins, Koji Steven Sakai, and guest host Jonesy take listeners on a comedic journey through ancient myths and wildly speculative theories about Stargates, suggesting that your GPS might just be influenced by some interstellar jokester. They even tackle the mysteries of the Antikythera device with a raised eyebrow, hypothesizing about lost technologies and time-altering gadgets that would make Doc Brown’s DeLorean look like a rusty old tricycle. In a playful twist, the episode throws in some contemporary political figures, hilariously speculating on the influence of ‘alien’ entities—because let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to blame their latest political blunder on E.T.? Packed with laughter, curiosity, and storytelling as imaginative as a three-headed space llama, this episode is your one-way ticket to a galaxy far, far away where humor and human imagination reign supreme. Grab your tinfoil hat and join the fun!
ABOUT OUR GUEST/HOST
Touring standup comedian and actor seen on Letterman Show, Gotham, Drunk History, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and more. Host of the Weird AF News podcast and co-host of Comedians React.
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
In this poignant episode of the Japanese American Podcast, we explore the incredible journey of Holocaust survivor Solly Ganor and his unexpected salvation by Japanese American soldiers during World War II. Through Solly’s harrowing experiences on a death march from the Dachau death camp, listeners are introduced to the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion—soldiers who defied prejudice and became beacons of hope for many. Joined by guest Naoyuki Ikeda, the episode delves into the inner conflicts faced by these Japanese American soldiers, who were fighting abroad while their families faced internment back home. Featuring real stories of courage and kindness, including the actions of Sergeant Imamura and Chiune Sugihara, this episode highlights the complexities of wartime morality and the profound impact of individual acts of bravery.
For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.
This episode the wonderful voice work of actor and friend of the podcast Naoyuki Ikeda.
Here are some of the links we used to help us write this episode:
EXCLUSIVE: Halo and Classified filmmaker Roel Reiné is set to direct American Smuggler, the upcoming action-drama starring 24, Major League and Far From Heaven actor Dennis Haysbert.
The film will chart the relentless hunt for Craig Petties, an American drug trafficker best known for the criminal empire he led in Memphis while operating in collaboration with Mexico’s infamous drug cartels. Haysbert will play a prominent CIA agent in the film. Filming is due to get underway this summer in New Mexico.
The project will hone in on the efforts of SEAL Team Six, Delta Force and the Mexican Marines, who painstakingly dismantled an international drug network that plagued communities across North America for decades. The story also brings to light the lesser-known tragedy of children forced to labor in El Chapo’s infamous tunnels, often losing their lives in collapses. Petties was sentenced to life in prison in 2013 at age 36 for his trafficking career and connection to multiple homicides.
The film is being written by Koji Steven Sakai (Skeletons in the Closet), Sam Wildhorse Bass of EuroAmerica Films and Tracy Matthews of Lion of Judah Productions. The screenplay will be based on Matthews’ experience as a civilian team leader during the operation.
Producers are David M. Matthews of Stone Gate Entertainment; Cheryl Martin and Troy Allen of CMA Entertainment; Jarnell Stokes, Isaiah Stokes, and Aisha Wynn of Stoked Bros Media; and Lion of Judah Productions.
Haysbert shares executive producer credits with Geevani Singh and retired member of SEAL Team Six Don Mann. Former professional football player and Navy SEAL Damian Jackson will consult.
Haysbert is best known for portraying President David Palmer in hit series 24, for which he was Golden Globe nominated, baseball player Pedro Cerrano in the Major League film trilogy, and for his role in Todd Haynes’ acclaimed drama Far From Heaven.
Reiné began his directing career in the Netherlands, where he won the Dutch Academy Award for Best Director with his first theatrical feature, The Delivery. His credits include historical features Admiral and Redbad and TV series Halo, Marvel-Inhumans, and Wu Assassins. Most recently, Reiné directed the feature Classified starring Aaron Eckhart and Tim Roth.
In the Season 5 opener of the “Unofficial Official Story Podcast,” listeners embark on a rollicking and insightful adventure through the colorful world of sports, with a spotlight on the vibrant cultural identities of Asian athletes. The episode dives headfirst into the fascinating lives of sports superstars like Shohei Ohtani and Kobe Bryant, unraveling the quirky challenges and laugh-out-loud moments of cultural assimilation. With a delightful blend of personal tales and spirited historical debates, the hosts craft a lively tapestry of stories about race and identity in the sports arena. They hilariously ponder the legacy of baseball greats like Babe Ruth, playfully questioning his racial background, while offering whimsical reflections on the physical feats and perceptions of athletes. This episode is a delightful cocktail of comedy, sports history, and social commentary, serving up an engaging listen that flips the script, breaks the mold, and celebrates the kaleidoscope of stories in the world of athletics.
link
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Josh Edelman is an award winning comedian, filmmaker, producer, and magician. Find out more about him at his website: https://www.joshedelmancomedy.com/
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
EXCLUSIVE:Canada‘s Quentin Lee has touched down at Series Mania this week with scripted show Morning, Paris! and a third season of their stand-up show Comedy InvAsian in their back pocket.
The director-producer’s Margin Films has again teamed with Comedy InvAsian co-creator and showrunner Koji Steven Sakai from Little Nalu Pictures and exec producer Victor Elizade from Viva Pictures on the show, which spotlights AAPI comedians doing 30-minute sets in each episode. Lee is the director.
The show is produced by Little Nalu Pictures and distributed by Viva Pictures Distribution. It was the TV debut of AAPI comedians such as Atsuko Okatsuka, Joey Guila, Robin Tran and Jiaoying Summers.
Seasons 1 and 2 premiered on Hulu as an exclusive in 2018, and both are now streaming on Peacock, Tubi and Prime Video. Season 3 is set for principal photography in July.
“With Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) a hot-button in the national discussion, it’s even more important that shows like Comedy InvAsian III exist, said Sakai. “Asian American diversity in television broadens narratives, enriches our culture, and inspires future generations to embrace their heritage.”
“We’re incredibly proud to help bring this next wave of talented comedians to a global stage,” added Elizade, President of Viva Pictures. “Comedy has the unique power to connect us through shared laughter, while also spotlighting personal experiences that are as diverse as they are universally relatable. There’s nothing better than comedy that cracks you up and opens your eyes – and Comedy InvAsian III does both.”
Elizalde also produces Entre Nos, the LatinX stand-up comedy show that runs on HBO.
“I’m thrilled to be working with the original gangstas who started the Comedy InvAsian party and having some fun together,” said Lee, who co-created Comedy InvAsian and spinoff series Comedy Invasion, which won the 2024 Canadian Screen Award for Best Comedy Special.
This comes as Lee pitches Morning, Paris! at the Canada-France Series Lab at Series Mania in Lille, France today. The initiative is a joint venture between Series Mania, Telefilm Canada and the CNC.
Lee’s show follows Chanel Lee, a 29-year-old aspiring fashion designer from Vancouver, who flies to Paris with Tristan Nahanee, a security guard with an enigmatic past, without informing her boss, Benoit Petit. The unlikely duo, who producers say embody “a comical reinvention of The Odd Couple” as they “navigate the chaos of crashing Paris Fashion Week as Chanel experiences the city’s magic for the first time.”
Koji Steven Sakai 